Nowadays, many people use antibiotics, painkillers, cough syrups and sleeping pills without proper medical advice. Some follow suggestions from friends or relatives, while others buy medicines directly from medical stores and use old medicines kept at home. This habit is very dangerous because every disease requires proper examination and diagnosis. A medicine that is suitable for one person may be harmful to another. Wrong medicines or incorrect doses can cause allergies, stomach ulcers, kidney damage, liver problems and other serious complications. In some cases, self-medication can even become life-threatening. The misuse of antibiotics is also increasing antibiotic resistance.
One of the main reasons behind this problem is lack of awareness and the high cost of medical treatment. In villages and cities alike, people often avoid visiting hospitals and prefer self-treatment. Unfortunately, some medical stores also sell strong medicines without prescriptions. The government and health authorities should take strict action against the sale of medicines without prescriptions. Awareness campaigns should also be organized through schools, colleges, hospitals and media to educate people about the harmful effects of self-medication. People must understand that taking medicine without a doctor’s advice is not safe and can seriously harm their health.
Khushboo Khoso
Karachi
